With each passing day it is becoming more evident through the media, stories we hear from our clients, and our own experiences that drastic changes are needed in the Criminal Justice system. As Social Workers we know it is our ethical responsibility to work towards Social Justice. However, within criminal justice reform there is still, for many Social Workers, a lack of clarity about how to proceed—what specific steps will make a difference? Where to start with a broad and complex system?

In this session we will look at modern disparities that exist within the entire criminal justice system, exploring the history and modern functioning of policing, courts, and prisons. Our goal together will be to work towards an answer to the question “what role can social workers have in changing the criminal justice system”? We will discuss some of the initiatives currently happening in Minnesota and across the country and spend time looking critically at the 2018 election. You will learn which elected offices are pivot points to changing policing, courts, and prisons, and how to use your social work skills to advocate for reformed systems in an election cycle.